Get educated about Year Up

A couple months back I attended a charity event for a non-profit called Year Up. It was an incredible event that left all of us impressed and feeling fortunate to have had the opportunity to participate in such an informative and fun event. In all honesty, it blew me away.Admittedly I didn’t do a whole lot of research prior to walking through the door that night, I knew the gist of what Year Up was about but figured I’d learn about it when I get there. And learn, I did.

Year Up is a non-profit organization located here in San Francisco as well as eight other cities nationwide that helps at-risk kids between the ages of about 18-24yrs old gain professional and technical skills to prep them for a career in computer technology. The program teaches them professional skills so they can navigate working in an office setting as well as computer technical skills. They graduate the year long program with 13 college course credits, a 6 month internship under their belt, an understanding of professional office etiquette and inner workings as well as the vocational skills that will help them get their foot in the door as technical professionals.

The students at the fundraiser that night told their stories of what it was like prior to entering the program. Their stories were of struggle and feeling helpless though they explained their unfortunate circumstances with such positive perspectives that one couldn’t help but be moved. Within Year Up they have a mentorship program that allows professionals in the tech industry to help further guide and assist the students along their journey. They also have plenty of other ways to get involved, for example you can teach a one hour class or sit with the students as they do mock interviews and give feedback. You can help them with their resume or how best to dress for the interview. There are plenty more ways to get involved that will leave a positive impact.

Currently, Year Up is recruiting new mentors for the next school start time scheduled for March 2012. I have signed up to be a mentor and look forward to being assigned my mentee, in fact, I can’t wait to get started! Follow the link if you want to get involved or just want to learn more about this incredible program.

Do you volunteer for a local cause? How could you participate in Year Up’s incredible program?

This week’s Virtual High Five goes out to Mr. Pat Burroughs in Boise! Thanks for the insight into posting to social media.